Non-Government Schools Benefit From Grants

Baulkham Hills State Liberal MP David Elliott has welcomed the announcement of an additional $50 million under the Building Grants Assistance Scheme to fund new classrooms and facilities in non-government schools.

The additional funding over the next four years will be allocated in the upcoming NSW Budget 2015-16 for non-government school capital works, and represents a 100 per cent increase under the scheme.

“Schools in Baulkham Hills will be able to apply for funding under the scheme which is directed towards low to medium fee independent and Catholic schools,” Mr Elliott said.

“Demand for school places is increasing across the State and this funding recognises the significant role non-government schools will play in meeting that challenge.”

Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli said the new commitment means the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is now providing more than $24 million under the scheme each year to support enrolment growth in non-government schools.

Mr Piccoli said the budget provides funding to non-government schools in a number of programs, including:

• recurrent per capita grants

• additional needs-based Gonski funding

• capital assistance

• assisted school travel program

“This is in addition to funding of more than $450 million in 2015-16 for public school education infrastructure which will boost facilities right across NSW,” Mr Piccoli said.

“The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is investing in increased school capacity across all sectors.”